Well, I just received my case from Jim today..... I have the 2x4 in dark brown.
First thing - I was quoted 2-3 weeks, but it took just a week or so longer than quoted. I completely understand, as Jim said that he went on vacation for quite a bit and was more than happy to communicate this to me. I give communication more weight than most things, as I hate it when people say one thing and do another. Jim was very good at letting me know what was going on.
So I get the case, I and I must say that I am completely blown away at the lengths gone to to pack this thing. I must say, top notch! I had to remove quite a bit of foaming to get to the case itself. Best packing job I have seen since I have been purchasing online.
Next - I finally get to the case. I start going over it in detail, and I must say that without a doubt, this is by far the best case I have ever owned. I started going over the stitching in detail and it is all even, not out of line, just perfect. The shading on the case is consistent throughout, which says quite a bit being as how he hand dyed it himself.
Upon opening the case itself, the inserts have no wrinkles and are tightly fit together. No type of overlay, etc. You can truly tell that time and great effort has gone into creating this masterpiece.
Next I really wanted to inspect all of the pockets. There are quite a few, and by sticking your hand in them, you can tell that you do get more space in there than one would think. I was very skeptical about the number of pockets from pictures that I have seen, but they overlap very well and give you more space than one person really needs. I was able to transition everything from my 3x5 w/ two large pockets into this case with addtl room to spare.
The leather "hinge" that is used on the back is extra thick. You can tell that just by looking and moving it around that there will be no issue in keeping it open or closed, choice is yours. You can really see the durability in it as well, as I know that it will last for years. Jim has already mentioned that if you ever have a problem, he will be happy to take care of it at no charge. That means quite a bit as well.
The straps are one thing that I did have to play with a bit, although it is fresh, brand new leather. It only took me a few moments to lengthen the strap to my desired distance. I have it hanging for a bit to really take out the crease from where it was when built/shipped. Shouldn't be a problem whatsoever. I am also pleased with the fact that it comes with two, so if I ever have a problem, there is always a spare.
The handles are also very durable and tough, as it's questionable that there is some sort of insert in them to stay as stiff as they are, however it is completely natural looking.
The clasp is also very classy looking. Not hard to open or close in the least. Also lockable w/ key, however I don't think that will ever stop anyone at all.
Final thoughts - beyond the best case for the money. You can tell that Jim does not cut any corners in making this case. He really puts his pride into every aspect of building this item. The only disappointment that I had was the longer than expected wait, however the final product more than makes up for it.
Just my initial impression.
Ross
First thing - I was quoted 2-3 weeks, but it took just a week or so longer than quoted. I completely understand, as Jim said that he went on vacation for quite a bit and was more than happy to communicate this to me. I give communication more weight than most things, as I hate it when people say one thing and do another. Jim was very good at letting me know what was going on.
So I get the case, I and I must say that I am completely blown away at the lengths gone to to pack this thing. I must say, top notch! I had to remove quite a bit of foaming to get to the case itself. Best packing job I have seen since I have been purchasing online.
Next - I finally get to the case. I start going over it in detail, and I must say that without a doubt, this is by far the best case I have ever owned. I started going over the stitching in detail and it is all even, not out of line, just perfect. The shading on the case is consistent throughout, which says quite a bit being as how he hand dyed it himself.
Upon opening the case itself, the inserts have no wrinkles and are tightly fit together. No type of overlay, etc. You can truly tell that time and great effort has gone into creating this masterpiece.
Next I really wanted to inspect all of the pockets. There are quite a few, and by sticking your hand in them, you can tell that you do get more space in there than one would think. I was very skeptical about the number of pockets from pictures that I have seen, but they overlap very well and give you more space than one person really needs. I was able to transition everything from my 3x5 w/ two large pockets into this case with addtl room to spare.
The leather "hinge" that is used on the back is extra thick. You can tell that just by looking and moving it around that there will be no issue in keeping it open or closed, choice is yours. You can really see the durability in it as well, as I know that it will last for years. Jim has already mentioned that if you ever have a problem, he will be happy to take care of it at no charge. That means quite a bit as well.
The straps are one thing that I did have to play with a bit, although it is fresh, brand new leather. It only took me a few moments to lengthen the strap to my desired distance. I have it hanging for a bit to really take out the crease from where it was when built/shipped. Shouldn't be a problem whatsoever. I am also pleased with the fact that it comes with two, so if I ever have a problem, there is always a spare.
The handles are also very durable and tough, as it's questionable that there is some sort of insert in them to stay as stiff as they are, however it is completely natural looking.
The clasp is also very classy looking. Not hard to open or close in the least. Also lockable w/ key, however I don't think that will ever stop anyone at all.
Final thoughts - beyond the best case for the money. You can tell that Jim does not cut any corners in making this case. He really puts his pride into every aspect of building this item. The only disappointment that I had was the longer than expected wait, however the final product more than makes up for it.
Just my initial impression.
Ross